How Does an Elite Unit Track Down the Most Wanted Fugitives?

Rawal Rehman’s reckless driving under the influence of drugs resulted in the tragic death of three-year-old Louisa Palmasano in Manchester, prompting a swift response from Greater Manchester Police’s specialist Force Critical Wanted Unit (FCWU). Following the incident, Rehman attempted to evade capture by planning to flee the country, but his actions led to an intense manhunt that showcased the unit's effectiveness in tackling dangerous criminals.

Last updated: 22 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

After the tragic incident involving Louisa Palmasano, Rehman, a 37-year-old convicted drug dealer, was pursued by the FCWU, which is dedicated to apprehending dangerous criminals. Despite his attempts to escape to Lancashire and plan an overseas flight, police successfully located and arrested him before he could carry out his plans. This case emphasizes the urgency with which the police must act in such situations to prevent further tragedies.

Key takeaways

Rawal Rehman was involved in a fatal incident that killed three-year-old Louisa Palmasano.
The FCWU, a specialist unit of Greater Manchester Police, was crucial in tracking down Rehman.
In 2025 alone, the FCWU has already made around 119 arrests.

Timeline: how we got here

Key events leading up to Rehman’s arrest include:

22 February 2023: Louisa Palmasano was tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident involving Rehman.
23 February 2023: Rehman begins planning to flee the country, seeking refuge in a cafe in Lancashire.
24 February 2023: FCWU initiates a manhunt using digital investigation techniques and surveillance.
25 February 2023: Police storm the cafe and apprehend Rehman.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

In the latest developments, the FCWU has reported an increase in their arrest rates, demonstrating their effectiveness as a unit. Following Rehman's case, the unit continues to focus on apprehending criminals who pose significant threats to public safety.

What was already established

Prior to this incident, the FCWU had already established a strong reputation for tracking down high-risk fugitives. The unit was formed following the violent actions of serial murderer Dale Cregan in 2012, highlighting the ongoing need for a dedicated fugitive hunting team within Greater Manchester Police.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The tragic death of Louisa Palmasano has raised concerns about public safety, particularly in urban areas. Incidents involving drug-fuelled driving pose a direct risk to families and communities, leading to calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and drug testing.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and transport sectors, the implications of drug-related crimes are profound. Enhanced scrutiny and regulations may emerge to ensure the safety of customers and staff alike, impacting operational procedures across the board.

Policy and regulation

The case may prompt discussions among policymakers about improving road safety measures. Increased funding for police units like the FCWU might also be considered essential in tackling the rising threat of dangerous criminals on the run.

Numbers that matter

112 arrests made by the FCWU in 2024, reflecting a growing effectiveness in tracking fugitives.
119 arrests already made in 2025 as of late October, indicating an upward trend.
Numerous criminal incidents involving firearms have been reported, highlighting the risks associated with fugitive criminals.

Definitions and jargon buster

FCWU: Force Critical Wanted Unit, a specialist team within Greater Manchester Police focused on apprehending high-risk fugitives.
Digital investigation techniques: Methods used by law enforcement to track and gather information through electronic means, such as phone records and online activity.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, expect increased police presence in areas identified as high risk for drug-related incidents, coupled with community engagement initiatives aimed at raising awareness about road safety.

Medium term (1–6 months)

In the coming months, anticipate discussions among local authorities regarding potential policy changes aimed at preventing drug-fuelled driving, including stricter penalties and enhanced drug testing procedures.

Signals to watch

Monitoring of arrest rates by the FCWU and any new initiatives aimed at improving public safety.
Legislative proposals regarding drug testing and road safety measures introduced in Parliament.
Community response to increased police presence and public safety campaigns.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about local safety initiatives and community policing efforts.
Report any suspicious behaviour to local authorities to aid in keeping communities safe.

Don’t

Do not ignore signs of drug abuse or reckless behaviour in your community; report it to authorities.
Avoid complacency about road safety; remain vigilant as a pedestrian or driver.

Checklist

Understand the importance of reporting suspicious activities.
Stay updated on local news regarding crime and safety.
Encourage discussions about road safety in your community.
Participate in local workshops on responsible driving and drug awareness.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the police have been actively pursuing dangerous fugitives, there are ongoing risks associated with individuals like Rehman. The nature of drug use and its impact on driving behaviour can lead to unpredictable outcomes, and the effectiveness of police methods may vary based on the circumstances of each case. Additionally, public perception of safety may be impacted by high-profile incidents, potentially leading to calls for reforms that may not be universally agreed upon.

Bottom line

The tragic case of Louisa Palmasano highlights the urgent need for effective policing and community awareness surrounding drug-related driving incidents. As the FCWU continues its focus on apprehending dangerous criminals, it is essential for communities to remain vigilant and engaged in discussions about safety. Understanding the implications of such incidents can lead to a more informed and proactive citizenry.

FAQs

What happened to Rawal Rehman?

Rawal Rehman was involved in a tragic incident that resulted in the death of three-year-old Louisa Palmasano. He attempted to flee but was apprehended by the FCWU.

What is the Force Critical Wanted Unit?

The FCWU is a specialist unit within Greater Manchester Police focused on tracking and apprehending dangerous fugitives and criminals.

How does drug-fuelled driving impact public safety?

Drug-fuelled driving significantly increases the risk of accidents, endangering lives and prompting calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and penalties.